







ALDINI 

A COMEDY 

by Henry H. Morrill 


. 









ALDINI 



A Romantic Comedy 
in Four Acts by 



HENRY H. MORRILL 



Springfield, Mi 
1911 



Copyright 1912 



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©CI,D 28136 



CAST OF CHARACTERS 



Aldini 










The Great Tenor 


Irene Beauchamp . 




. 


A Rich Orphan 


Heloise Beauchamp 






Her Aunt 


Lena 






Her Maid 


Francois L'Estrange 






An Author 


Henri Maurel 






. A Diplomat 


Arthur Beecham 








. A Londoner 


Paul Jacquart 








. A Detective 


Frederic Artesani 








An Aristocrat 


Helene Artesani 








His Rich Wife 


Clara Duval . 








A Rich Widow 


Pierre 








. Her Servant 


Marie 








Her Maid 


An Officer 








In Uniform 


M. AND Mme. Nivers 








M. AND Mme. Halle 








M. AND Mme. Pontet 






" Mme. Duval's Guests 


M. AND Mme. Beaulieu 








M. AND Mme. Rousse 


au 











ALDINI 



ACT FIRST 
Scene I — (In the boudoir of Mile. Irene Beauchamp, 
Paris, October i/, iQio, 8 p. m. She is seated with 
her Aunt and chaperon, Heloise Beauchamp, at the 
table, reading, while her Aunt is sewing. She puts 
down the paper she has been reading and turns to her 
Aunt and says : ) 

Irene — Auntie, did you see how Briinhilde was 
encircled with flames last night? 

Auntie — Yes, and it seemed to me a very dangerous 
thing to do. What if she had caught fire? 

Irene — Well, I suppose they have firemen in the 
wings, in case that should happen; but it was such a 
strange thing to do on the stage. Wagner was certainly 
a dramatic poet, as well as a great composer. 

Auntie — Yes, indeed, but I have always wondered 
why he took his subjects from myth or legend, when he 
might have treated real people and events, such as we are 
familiar with. Mozart's "Marriage of Figaro," Rossini's 
"Barber of Seville," and our own Gounod's "Marguerite," 
or "Faust," as they call it in Germany, are much more 
human and lifelike than any of Wagner's operas. 

Irene — That is true. "The Flying Dutchman," 
"Tannhauser," "Lohengrin," "Parsifal," "Tristan and 
Isolde," "The Meistersingers," and the entire cycle of the 
"Nibelungen Lied," are drawn from the old myths in which 
Wagner seemed to revel. 

Auntie — Wagner's music is quite as romantic as his 
librettos, and yet he has conquered the world and found 
many imitators. Paris was hostile to him for years, and 
even yet there is a bitter feeling against his theory of 
dramatic art. 

Irene — I have just been reading an article by Mon- 
sieur Frangois L'Estrange about that very thing. He 
treats it in a very broadminded way. 

Auntie — Monsieur L'Estrange is a very broadminded 
man. Of all the men in our circle, he pleases me the most. 
He seems to see into people and find their very souls, to a 
degree that constantly surprises me in so young a man. 



ALDINI 



{Lena, the maid, enters, and catches Mile. Beauchamp's 
eye.) 

Lena — Mademoiselle, there is a call on the telephone 
for Madame Beauchamp. 

Auntie {rises) — Will you excuse me for a moment, 
Irene ? 

Irene — Certainly, Auntie. {Auntie goes out U. R.) 
I hope no one is ill. It seems that Auntie is always being 
called away by some of her old friends who are ailing. 
{Auntie enters U. R.) 

Auntie — Madame Brisson has been taken ill, and 
wants to know if I can possibly come and stay with her 
tonight. Do you think that you could spare me, Irene? 

Irene — Why, of course I can. This is not our day 
at home. I do not expect any callers. {Glances at the 
clock.) It is past eight o'clock. I shall be perfectly safe. 
Lena will lock up the house, and I shall not be the least 
bit afraid. Order a carriage, and have Lena pack your 
suit case with whatever you need. Madame Brisson needs 
you or she would not have had them telephone over. 

Auntie — I will telephone that I am coming and go 
with Lena and get ready. There is really no reason why 
you could not be left alone for just one night. You are 
sure you do not mind? 

Irene — Not in the least. There is nothing to be 
afraid of. Go right along and do all you can for poor 
Madame Brisson. She will appreciate it. 

Auntie — I am sure she will, she has always clung 
to me, ever since we were girls together. It is so good 
of you to be brave and let me go to her. I will tell Lena 
what to pack, telephone for a carriage, and go as soon as 
I can. 

Irene — {Rises, comes to her Aunt, kisses her and 
says:) Good night. Auntie. 

Auntie — Good night, dearie. 

Irene — Do not worry. I will telephone over to you 
at ten o'clock and let you know that all is well. {Auntie 
goes out U. R.) 

Irene — Auntie is a dear soul, and takes good care of 
any one who is ill. She is more like a sister to Madame 
Brisson, than a friend. {Goes to the table, arranges the 
papers, sits dozvn, begins to read, puts the paper back on 
the table.) I cannot keep my mind from the opera of last 
night, and this article by Monsieur L'Estrange has fairly 



ALDINl 



filled my mind with all sorts of questions, about Art, and 
Literature and Life. I wonder how he knows so much. 
Auntie is fond of him, and I could be, but I must not let 
my thoughts run in that direction. (Rises.) I am getting 
morbid. I feel so restless that I can't keep still. If I try 
to read, my thoughts keep flying away to something else. 
Rather strange for a girl of twenty-two, but I feel as 
though I was thirty, (Sits down again.) 



Scene II — (The hell rings. Lena taps at the door U. R.) 

Irene — (Seated.) Come in. (Lena enters, brings a 
card on a tray to Irene, who takes it, reads it.) Monsieur 
Francois L'Estrange ! (She thinks a moment, then says:) 
I will receive him here, Lena. (Lena goes out U. R.) 
This is a strange coincidence. Shall I dare to ask him 
any questions about his article in the paper tonight? No! 
that would hardly be wise for me to do. 

Lena — (Opens the door, shows Frangois in, and 
says:) "Monsieur L'Estrange." (Goes out and closes the 
door. Frangois goes toward Irene with hand outstretched 
and smiling.) 

Irene — (Rises, goes to him, gives him her hand, 
saying:. I am so pleased to see you. Monsieur L'Estrange. 

Francois — Not more so than I am to find you at 
home. 

Irene — Such a compliment ! Auntie has gone out to 
visit a friend who is ill, so you find me alone. 

Francois — I am only too delighted, for I have some- 
thing to tell you. 

Irene — (Demurely) Shall we be seated? (She sits 
in the tete-a-tete, down left, he in a chair which he takes 
from the left of the table.) 

Francois — (Starts to say something, breaks off, 
coughs — hm, hm — appears ill at ease, looks at her, and 
finally says:) I wish to talk over something with you. 

Irene — (Looks at him keenly.) You are worried 
over something, perhaps? Is it business? 

Francois — No, it is not a matter of business. 

Irene — Is it a matter of social pleasure? 

Francois — No, it is nothing like that. 

Irene — Well, if it is neither business nor pleasure, it 
must be an affair of the heart. (Smiles.) 

Francois — Precisely ! That is what it is. An affair 
of the heart. 



ALDINI 



Irene — How can I help you? Do I know who the 
lady is? 

Francois — Yes, you know her very well. 

Irene — Oh ! tell me who it is. Does she know any* 
thing about your feeling? 

Francois — No, I have not dared to let her even sus- 
pect it. I met her at a friend's, where I took her out to 
dinner, and she fairly charmed me. 

Irene — Is she pretty? {Demurely.) 

Francois — Handsome, witty, clever; she is simply 
adorable ! 

Irene — (Slowly.) And she does not know that you 
have fallen in love with her. That is strange ! How 
have you been able to conceal your feelings? 

Francois — I have not dared to show them. She 
would not understand. 

Irene — Is she so proud? 

Francois — Are you proud? 

Irene — (Understands.) But, Monsieur! You surely 
do not mean that you have fallen in love with me? I 
thought you knew how I felt about marriage. 

Francois — How could I know? What is it that you 
feel about it ? I love you, I wish to marry you. Can you 
give me no hope? 

Irene — I have put the very thought of marriage out 
of my life. I have had one experience that I cannot blot 
out. I feel disgraced whenever I recall it. I have no 
first fresh love to give. I had a lover who jilted me, to 
marry an heiress and save his family. He thought more 
of them than he did of me. How can you ask me to 
marry you? 

Francois — Because I love you ! All men are not 
alike. You do yourself an injustice, to cloud your whole 
life, for the sake of one man who failed to be a man, when 
he was called to choose between love and pride. If he 
had really loved you, he would have rebuilt the crumbling 
fortunes of his family, but never have sacrificed you. If 
you had really loved him, you would love him still. 

Irene — Love him still ! Do you mean that I never 
really loved him? That I could love you as you deserve 
to be loved? I never knew a man like you, who sees into 
the very souls of people. But I have been bitter, reckless, 
suspicious. There is a rich Englishman, who became in- 
fatuated with me last May. He pursued me with atten- 
tions, forced himself upon me, until he became odious. I 



ALDINI 9 



refused to notice him, but he became furious, vindictive; 
he even threatened to carry me off by violence. He makes 
me afraid. Oh ! it is terrible ! 

Francois — {Calmly.) You need fear that English- 
man no longer. He will not trouble you again. 

Irene — Monsieur, what do you mean? {They rise.) 

Francois — Three days ago — he quarreled at the club. 
In a surly mood, he had spoken slightingly of you — by 
name. Early this morning — there was a duel. I killed 
him ! 

Irene — You killed him ! — Were you hurt ? — Are you 
in any danger? — Will they arrest you? 

Francois — Probably. — I was not hurt. — When the 
facts are known, I shall be at liberty. No court would 
condemn me ; even his friends said he deserved to be shot. 

Irene — And you did this for me, in defense of my 
name. How can I thank you ! How brave you are ! If 
you had been wounded or killed ? Oh ! I cannot bear to 
think of it. You have taken away my fear, can you give 
me back my pride? 

Francois — You were guilty of no sin — your inno- 
cence was not destroyed. You cannot reproach yourself 
for giving your affection to a man who sought you hon- 
estly. He needs pity perhaps as much as you need love 
and protection. 

Irene — But I never could climb up to your level. I 
should only drag you down. You deserve more than I 
can give. 

Francois — Our sins do not follow us unless we keep 
them alive. See ! my hands are red with blood. Do you 
not want to help me make them clean? 

Irene — Oh ! if I could help you, but my pride is gone. 
I feel that I could never satisfy you or hold your love. 

Francois — Can you not see how firmly my love will 
sustain you, make you forget, bring you happiness, and 
help you to grow into the woman you were meant to be, 
in spite of one blow to your girlish pride. Let me love 
you. {Draws her slowly to him, lifts up her downcast 
face and tenderly kisses her.) 

Irene — {In his arms.) If all men were like you, 
women would be angels ! 



10 A L D I J^I I 



Scene III — {Lena taps on the door U. R. Frangois 
releases Irene, who goes toward the door and says to 
Lena:) 

Irene — Come in. 

Lena — (Enters.) Monsieur Maurel is below and 
wishes to see Monsieur L'Estrange. 

Irene — Show him in at once. (Lena goes out U. R. 
and Monsieur L'Estrange and Irene approach the door 
U. R,, where they nieet Monsieur Maurel, who enters 
hurriedly. ) 

Irene — Good evening, Monsieur Maurel. (Gives 
him her hand, over zvhich he bows.) 

Maurel — Mile. Beauchamp, I am pleased to see you, 
and you also, Francois. I am sorry to disturb you, but I 
learned that you were to be apprehended. An officer met 
me at the club and asked me where he could find you. I 
told him you had just left, and had probably gone to make 
a call, but would be at your rooms by ten o'clock. I have 
secured a passport for you in my nam.e, and urge you to 
leave the city at once. Let me stay here, and if the officers 
find out that you came here, they can arrest me in your 
place. It will only mean detention for me until morning, 
and meanwhile you can escape, for they will stop searching 
for you as soon as they take me. 

Francois — My dear Maurel, I cannot consent to such 
a thing. You were my second in the duel, and know all 
the circumstances. I am sure to be acquitted, and I could 
not let you run such a risk. They would accuse you of 
helping me to escape. 

Maurel — I insist; you do not know the facts. Mr. 
Arthur Beecham, a brother of the Englishman, is here, 
and he will make trouble for you. Believe me, your safest 
course is to escape while you can, and return when mat- 
ters have quieted down. There will be a trial, at any 
rate. Do listen to me. 

Francois — Irene, what do you say? 

Irene — I think Monsieur Maurel is right. Go now, 
while you can. I will meet you in Brussels, where Auntie 
has a dear friend. Mr. Maurel will take us both to you, 
and I will marry you there at once. 

Maurel — Franqois, you have no time to lose. I wish 
you both joy. Here is your passport; here is my watch, 
and money. (Gives them.) Give me your watch, card 
case and anything else which would identify you. (Done.) 



A L D I N I 11 



Mademoiselle, have the maid bring up my coat and hat. I 
feel sure that I was shadowed here. 

Irene — (Rings for Lena, zvho enters.) Bring me 
Monsieur Maurel's hat and coat from the hall, at once. 
(Lena exit, U. R.) 

Maurel — Is there any way for Frangois to escape, if 
the officers should come to the front of the house, before 
he can get away? 

Irene — Yes, through my room. (Points U. L.) 
There is a fire-escape down into the alley behind the house, 
and he can get a cab at the corner. Hark ! I hear a 
carriage. 

Lena — (Brings the coat and hat, Frangois puts them 
on. Lena goes out U. R.) 

Francois — Maurel, you are the best friend a man 
ever had. I leave Irene in your care. Bring her to me 
as soon as possible. I will arrange everything in Brussels. 
Irene ! here is a pistol. I must leave it here, as my name 
is on it. (Gives it to her.) 

Irene — It may protect me. I will be brave, and not 
cry. Oh ! I hope you will get away in safety. Telegraph 
me from Brussels. (Goes to him, clings about his neck, 
kisses him, a bell rings.) You must go through my room. 
That is the officer. 

Francois — Goodbye, Maurel, goodbye. I will tele- 
graph you. Come, Irene, show me the way to the fire- 
escape. (They pass out together U. L.) 



Scene IV — (Irene returns from her room, closing the 

door behind her, — sinks into a chair, crying softly — 

then she looks up and says:) 

Irene — Do you think that he will get away safely? 

Maurel — Yes, indeed; but we must prepare to meet 
the officer. He must not suspect anything. Can you play 
your part? 

Irene — Yes ! indeed, I must. It is for his sake. Tell 
me what to do. 

Maurel — Express your concern — say as little as pos- 
sible — part with me in great distress. Let us be seated 
and be talking calmly. (They go to the tete-a-tete, down 
left, and sit dozvn. Lena taps on the door.) 

Irene — Come in. 

(Lena enters, and the oHHcer follows her into the 
room.) 



12 A L D I N I 



Irene — (Rises zuith Maurel.) What do you wish? 

Officer — I have come to ask Monsieur L'Estrange 
to go with me for a little — {Maurel comes toward him.) 
It is on account of the duel this morning, sir. 

Maurel — Where will you take me? Can I see my 
lawyer ? 

Officer — You will simply be detained for examina- 
tion, at ten o'clock tomorrow morning. You can send 
for your lawyer by a messenger. I wish to do my duty 
kindly, sir. Will you go quietly? 

Maurel — Certainly. I will give you no trouble. 
Can I leave my watch and card case with Mile. Beau- 
champ? {Hands them to the oMcer, ivho examines them 
and hands them to Mile. Irene.) 

Officer — Yes, sir; that will be all right. I am sorry 
to hasten you, but I have a carriage at the door. Would 
it not be better for you to come at once? 

Maurel — You are right, it will be best. {Goes to 
Irene.) Oh! Irene! keep up a brave heart. I am sure 
to be acquitted when the facts are known. I do not fear 
the outcome. All will yet be well. 

Irene — {Clings to him — begins to cry.) How can I 
let you go ? Oh ! I am so frightened ! 

Maurel — {Gently leads her to a seat near the table, 
releases himself, steps up to the officer.) I am ready to 
go now. {The officer precedes him to the door, passes 
out — Maurel looks back, bows his head, closes the door 
behind him as he passes out U. R.) 

Irene — {Goes to the table.) Franqois' watch. {Puts 
it in the drawer.) His card case. {Puts it with the 
zvatch.) His revolver. {Looks it over, tries the hammer, 
puts it away with the other articles.) Who could have 
ever imagined such a series of events in one evening, 
when Auntie and I were so free from all anxiety ! I can 
hardly realize how it came about. A duel, death, illness, 
love, escape, arrest. {Bell rings.) Who can that be? 
Not Francois returned? Or the officer and Monsieur 
Maurel? What new calamity must I face? 

Lena — {Enters U. R., brings a card on a tray, hands 
it to Irene, who takes it and reads it.) 

Irene — Arthur Beecham, London, England. Let him 
come up. 

Lena — {Goes out U. R.) 

Irene — Why should Beecham's brother come to see 



A L D I N I 13 



me? (Turns toward the door calmly and composedly.) 
Lena — (Enters and announces :) Monsieur Beecham. 
(Lena goes out.) 

Scene V. 

Beecham — (Stands at the doorway, then comes 
slowly toward her.) Mile. Beauchamp, I hope you will 
pardon my intrusion at this hour, but I am leaving for 
England in the morning, and felt it my duty to see you 
before going, and place in your hands this letter from my 
poor brother. 

Irene — (Takes the letter.) I thank you, and hope 
that you will not think harshly of me, in connection with 
this terrible affair. 

Beecham — Be at ease about that. My brother felt a 
premonition that he was going to fall, and in his letter to 
me, laid bare everything. He had been wild for years, 
and had no right to expect you to regard him with any 
favor. No blame is attached to you, but he wanted your 
forgiveness, and felt that death would atone for his fault. 
Can you forgive him? 

Irene — I do forgive him, from the bottom of my 
heart. (Brokenly.) Take back to England — my thanks 
— for your courtesy to me. 

Beecham — I am more than grateful to you, and be- 
lieve me, you have taken away some of the sting of my 
shame and sorrow. Your forgiveness will be a comfort 
to my mother. I bid you goodnight and goodbye. 

Irene — Goodbye, sir — I — I — thank you for coming to 
me — and — and — I — Goodbye ! ( Turns aside to hide her 
emotion, as Mr. Beecham pauses at the door, she goes to 
him rapidly, gives him her hand. He kisses it, bows 
gravely and passes out U. R., closing the door.) 

Irene — (She stands looking at the closed door, turns 
hack — up centre — looks at the letter — hesitates to open it, 
anally does so, saying:) A message from the dead! 
(Reads slowly.) "If this letter reaches you I shall be 
no more. Let my death expiate my fault. I had been 
drinking heavily for a long time, or it would never have 
happened. Forgive me. I was infatuated with you, but 
frightened you with my violence. My brother will come 
to you and plead for me. Let him go back to England, 
knowing that you forgive me. Farewell ! Your penitent 
Beecham." (Irene sits down.) I do forgive. What a 
tangled web life is ! I am finding out by sad experience, 



14 A L D I N I 



what I never dreamed of before. I won the attention of 
a weak man, the cruelty of a violent one; and now the 
affection of a noble man is mine. I was humiliated by my 
first lover, horrified by my second, and now I am afraid 
of losing my new-found happiness. What a man Franqois 
is ! Can I ever hope to make him happy ! How little we 
knew in the convent, what life in the great world was 
like! {The bell rings, she starts nervously.) What can 
that mean? (Glances at the clock.) It is ten o'clock. 
Surely no one should come here so late ! What new fear 
comes over me? I am afraid of — I know not what. 



Scene VI — (The door slowly opens. (Jacquart appears, 
looks furtively about him.) 

Irene — You are intruding here. 

Jacquart — I pushed the maid aside. I was afraid he 
would get away. 

Irene — Who do you mean? 

Jacquart — Monsieur L'Estrange. 

Irene — At this hour ! Did you expect to find him 
here? 

Jacquart — He is here, he came here, he has not 
gone. Where is he? 

Irene — Do you expect me to tell you? 

Jacquart — Is he in that room? 

Irene — That is my bedroom. Do you think he is in 
there? 

Jacquart — Do not trifle with me. He fought a duel 
this morning and killed a man. I am a private detective 
and can arrest him, unless you are willing to arrange 
matters with me so that he may escape. 

Irene — Why should he fear arrest? 

Jacquart — How would he dare to face a trial? 

Irene — But how can he escape? 

Jacquart — No one knows where he is, but me, and 
I am willing to let him go — for a consideration. 

Irene — How much do you want? 

Jacquart — Ten thousand francs. 

Irene — I have no such sum in the house. 

Jacquart — Perhaps some jewels. 

Irene — How would you dispose of them? 

Jacquart — You could redeem them in a few days. 

Irene — (Rising.) But that would not be the end! 



A L D I N I 15 



You would come again and demand more ! You would 
bleed me ! I refuse ! 

Jacquart — Take care — you will think better of it. 
(Moves toward her with hands open like clazvs.) 

Irene — {Excitedly.) Would you dare to touch me? 
(Puts her hand in the drawer zuhere the pistol is.) 

Jacquart — You will do as I say, or I will choke you. 

Irene — Stop ! Stay where you are ! (He starts 
toward her.) 

Jacquart — Will you do as I say? 

Irene — No, you cowardly blackmailer ! I will not 
give you a single franc ! 

Jacquart — (Snarls and starts to seize her, hut looks 
into the pistol which she points at him, crouches and 
whines.) Would you dare to shoot me? 

Irene — Yes ! (He backs azvay.) There is the door! 
(He slinks toward it, she follows him.) Leave the room, 
or I will shoot ! 

Jacquart — (Lapping his lips with his tongue, glaring, 
opening and shutting his clawlike hands.) You she devil ! ! 
(Slinks through the door.) 

Irene — (Closes the door, turns the key.) What an 

escape! (Leans against the door, hands outstretched, 

sobbing and trembling, and slowly sinks down in a faint.) 

Curtain Falls. 

End of the First Act. 



SECOND ACT 
Scene I — (Drawing room of Madame Duval's house in 

Brussels, six months later. Madame Duval is seated, 

azvaiting guests for dinner.) 

Pierre — (Announces.) Monsieur Maurel. (U. L.) 

(Maurel enters, goes toward Madame Duval, who 
rises, gives him her hand.) 

Duval — I am so glad you came early, Monsieur 
Maurel. We can have a little chat before the others 
come. 

Maurel — Charming of you to say so. I am to be 
envied. 

Duval — Flatterer! (They sit dozvn.) I wonder if 
you ever met the Artesanis in Paris. Are you acquainted 
with them? 

Maurel — No, I only know of them. His family is 
of the old aristocracy. He married a rich woman who is 



16 A L D I N I 



considerably older than he is, and a trifle bourgeois — 
perhaps. 

Duval — Yes, but they are received everywhere, and 
one of my friends asked me to show them some attention 
while they were here in Brussels. They had done some 
favor to her, and I am only too happy to make them wel- 
come. May I count upon you to make them feel at home ? 

Maurel — I shall be glad to do so, as they are from 
Paris, and that is a bond of sympathy. 

Duval — Tell me something about the L'Estranges. 
They have been here six months and I am meeting them 
frequently. They were married here, you know. 

Maurel — Yes, and he is my best friend. He is a 
splendid fellow, has an income of forty or fifty thousand 
francs, and a fine chateau near Paris, is rapidly becoming 
celebrated as an author; his wife is a charming lady of 
good family, though her parents are both dead, and she 
had made her home with her Aunt, Madame Heloise 
Beauchamp. They are a most devoted couple and as 
happy as I ever knew people to be. They make me 
envious. 

Duval — Was there not some romance about their 
marriage — a duel? 

Maurel — Yes; he fought a duel with a wild English- 
man who was infatuated with her. He was a hard drinker 
and forgot himself so far as to let his tongue wag. He 
was killed. The court of appeal will give a decision in 
a few days, and Frangois is sure of an acquittal. Then 
they will return to Paris and he will pursue his career. 

Duval — How interesting! I am glad you know 
them so well; but here comes some one. 

Pierre — {Announces, U. L.) Monsieur and Madame 
L'Estrange. {They enter U. L.) {Pierre exit U. L.) 

Duval — {Meets them. ) My dear Madame L'Estrange ! 
I am so glad to see you, and you also Monsieur. You 
are both very welcome. 

Irene — It is so kind of you to say so ; it is a pleasure 
to be here. 

Francois — We have been looking forward to this 
evening with pleasant anticipation. 

Duval — You both know Monsieur Maurel. 

Maurel — Yes, indeed, and I am sure they will not 
blame me for coming a little early to enjoy Madame 
Duval's company before you came. 



A L D I N I 17 



Irene — Madame Duval, do you know how easy it is 
for a Diplomat to pay compliments? 

Duval — I am finding out very rapidly tonight. 

Francois — But you will also find out that Madame 
Duval's compliments are as sincere as they are deserved. 
{They all laugh, and then are seated.) 

Duval — I wrote you that my other guests were 
Monsieur and Madame Artesani. {Irene is surprised.) 
They are from Paris and I have met them several times 
since they came to Brussels. They know some friends of 
mine, and Monsieur Maurel says the Artesani family is 
of the old aristocracy. The son married wealth to restore 
their fortunes. That accounts for the difference in their 
ages. (Smiles.) 

Francois — Yes, the Artesani family is an old one and 
a proud one. Madame Artesani's father was a diamond 
merchant in Marseilles, but I have forgotten his name for 
the moment. 

Duval — They are very pleasant people and we shall 
get along nicely. I shall ask you, Monsieur L'Estrange, 
to make Madame Artesani feel at ease, and draw her out 
on literature, as she is a great admirer of all authors; 
and that reminds me, when is your book to come out? 

Francois — Early this Fall. I am receiving the first 
proofs now, and feel a great relief, after the strain of 
writing. 

Pierre — (Announces, U. L.) Monsieur and Madame 
Artesani. (All rise as they enter.) 

Duval — I am so pleased to see you, Madame Artesani, 
and you also. Monsieur. May I present you to Madame 
L'Estrange and Monsieur L'Estrange and Monsieur Mau- 
rel, they are also from Paris. (They bow, smile and say, 
"Pleased to meet you.") 

Duval — Shall we be seated? (They do so.) Do 
you find Brussels a pleasant city? 

Madame Artesani — Yes, indeed, and the people are 
so hospitable. It is lovely of you to have us here for 
dinner, and give us the privilege of listening to Aldini. 
We heard him sing in ''Lohengrin" last night, and were 
simply carried away with his singing and acting. 

Irene — He is a great artist. My husband says all 
manner of good things about him, and never tires of sing- 
ing his praises. 

Francois — Yes, Madame Artesani, I write music as 



18 A L D I N I 



well as books, and find my greatest inspiration in Aldini 
himself. 

Frederic — His name is Italian. Do you know any- 
thing of his family? 

Francois — Very little. His father had a small estate, 
but his mother's dowry was considerable. He is highly 
educated, and shows culture and refinement in — well — in 
everything ! 

Frederic — There is an aristocracy of family, which 
is built upon fame, fortune, power and refinement. But 
the Prince who married the peasant girl for her beauty, 
had a sad awakening when he found that she could not 
share in his ideals, his ambitions; that she was shut out 
from his life, by the mere fact that beauty and amiability 
could not take the place of congeniality of soul. I admit 
that many a proud family suffers from the failure of its 
sons and daughters to maintain its ideals, (I am a sad 
example of this very thing), but I feel that those who rise 
into the class of aristocrats, are the rightful leaders of the 
common people. 

Irene — What you say is quite true, but the so-called 
privileged classes, have to be recruited from some outside 
source to keep them from stagnation. "Noblesse oblige," 
is a motto that is not always observed, even by those of 
high social station, and the artist, who is also a gentleman, 
has his own nobility. Aldini is such a man. I heard 
him sing in church — "The Prodigal Son's Return." You 
could almost see the prodigal coming home, weary, de- 
spondent; the joy of the father over his son's return alive 
from the dead ; the scene with the elder brother who would 
not come in. Oh ! it was wonderful ! 

Duval — How lovely ! He is going to sing that very 
song tonight, and his great love song — "My Heart Is 
Aflame." Have you heard it? Any of you? (No one 
speaks.) I heard him sing it a few days ago. He would 
not tell me who composed it, but he will sing it for us 
tonight, and I am sure you will admire it. I never heard 
a song where the words breathed the spirit of such intense 
devotion, and the music was so wedded to the words, that 
they both seemed the offspring of one soul, one inspiration. 

Francois — Madame Duval, you will have a pleasant 
surprise tonight when you learn who wrote the words and 
music of Aldini's song, and I shall venture to recall your 
words of enthusiastic praise, when you know the source 
of the inspiration. I am in Aldini's confidence and know 



A L D I N I 19 



the author, who will be charmed to feel that his song has 
touched your heart. 

Duval — You arouse my curiosity, but Aldini has 
promised to tell me the author's name, before he sings the 
song. So I will not tease you to reveal it now, as we 
shall all be waiting expectantly to find out who he is. 

Pierre — Madame, dinner is served. 

Duval — Monsieur L'Estrange, will you take Madame 
Artesani? {He gives her his right arm and they pass out, 
U. L.) And Monsieur Artesani — Madame L'Estrange. 
{He gives her his right arm and they pass out, U. L.) 
Monsieur Maurel — Will you take me? 

Maurel — Now and always. 

Duval — Hush ! They may hear you. You are surely 
a Diplomat as well as a Parisian. {Pass out U. L. as the 
others did.) 



Scene II — {Pierre and Marie enter, to arrange the room 
for the concert, front the U. R.) 

Marie — Madame said we were to place the chairs 
over there. {Pointing D. R.) 

Pierre — {Places chairs — turns to Marie.) How 
many shall we arrange for? 

Marie — Fifteen or sixteen, but do not crowd the 
chairs together; leave them farther apart; just have them 
handy. {They place more chairs, D. R.) 

Pierre — Who is going to sing tonight? 

Marie — Aldini of the Opera, but he only sings two 
songs, and then goes to Madame Berard's. 

Pierre — We shall be able to hear him? 

Marie — Of course. Isn't it lovely? 

Pierre — That we shall hear him? 

Marie — What else? 

Pierre — I thought of something else. 

Marie — What was it? 

Pierre — You were looking in the mirror. 

Marie — And saw my own face ! Do you compare 
that with hearing Aldini? 

Pierre — It is more lovely. 

Marie — The very idea ! You pay pretty compliments. 

Pierre — I am improving under your guidance. 

Marie — You need very little help. You never lack 
a flattering word. 



20 A L D I N I 



Pierre — The proper word is never flattery. Come 
and see how lovely a picture you make. 

Marie — (Comes.) You will make me vain if you 
keep on. 

Pierre — You have lots to be vain over, but I am to 
be pitied. 

Marie — Why do you say that? I think you are to 
be envied. 

Pierre — Tell me why. 

Marie — {Counting on her fingers.) You are young, 
— have a good position, — are well trained, — well liked, and 
good looking! {Archly.) 

Pierre — Who is the flatterer now? You little co- 
quette ! You are only teasing me. 

Marie — You tease more than I do. Do men like you 
when they tease? 

Pierre — {Smiles.) Yes; that is a sure sign. 

Marie — Do you tease anyone else? 

Pierre — I like you too much to ever think of it. 

Marie — Not even Clara? 

Pierre — No ! Are your eyes green ? 

Marie — No, they are brown. 

Pierre — Very fine eyes, too. Jealous girls have green 
eyes. 

Marie — I am not jealous — Are my eyes green? 

Pierre — {Looks into her eyes.) No, they are still 
brown. 

Marie — Were you ever jealous? 

Pierre — Never ! I know too much. 

Marie — How so? 

Pierre — Jealousy hurts. 

Marie — Could I make you jealous? 

Pierre — I am afraid you could. 

Marie — Is jealousy very bad? 

Pierre — Yes; it is the grave of love. 

Marie — How much do you like me? 

Pierre — More than tongue can tell ! More than any- 
thing else in the whole world ! 

Marie — {Goes to the door toward the dining room, 
dances hack toivard him — takes his hand.) {Eccentric 
dance to music in Orchestra.) {At the close, Marie listens 
at the door, hears the people rise, takes his hand and they 
scamper off, U. R.) 



A L D I N I 21 



Scene III — (Madame Duval and Monsieur Maurel enter 
from U. L., pass into the Conservatory, C. Monsieur 
Artesani and Madame L'Estrange follozv them — 
Monsieur L'Estrange and Madame Artesani come up 
the centre. They were all chatting after the dinner.) 

Madame Artesani — {Seated front, left.) What you 
say is very interesting, but your ideas seem very strange 
to me. 

Francois — {Standing at her right hand.) New ideas 
rarely ever are conventional. 

Madame — But where do you get such novel ideas? 

Francois — It comes from making people and thoughts 
and things into a complete whole. And the whole of life, 
as you see it, is your philosophy. 

Madame — Then I'm afraid I haven't any. I miss so 
much that I should have known earlier. 

Francois — The impressions of youth are the reflec- 
tions of maturity. 

Madame — I am not old enough to have any reflec- 
tions yet. Do you think I am? 

Francois — I never dare venture on forbidden ground. 

Madame — They say a woman is as old as she looks, 
and a man is as old as he feels. 

Francois — They are both mistaken. 

Madame — I feel younger than I am. My girlhood 
was very monotonous, always with my father in Mar- 
seilles. He was a diamond seller. 

Francois — An exporter? 

Madame — Not openly; he sold his gems in New 
York, without paying the duty. Do you think that was 
wrong? 

Francois — I hesitate to express an opinion. 

Madame — You are very cautious, but I like that in a 
man. I am impulsive and show my feelings too plainly. 
Do you not think so? {Simpers.) 

Francois — I can hardly say that I had noticed it yet. 

Madame — I was afraid I showed my preference for 
you too openly. {Languishes.) 

Francois — One never does that in society. 

Madame — Is that another of your witty paradoxes? 

Francois — In society we hide our real feelings, and 
only express what everyone approves. 

Madame — I can never do that. My feelings are too 



22 A L D I N I 



strong to be hidden. Do you not find it so? {Looks at 
him meaningly.) 

Francois — I have learned to be blind whenever it is 
v^ise. - * 

Madame — Would you be blind if I should show you 
what I feel? (Softly.) 

Francois — Undoubtedly. Discretion is the only virtue 
I have ever cultivated. 

Madame— I feel a little faint ! Will you not take me 
to the dining room? A glass of water — perhaps — will 
revive me. {Demurely.) 

Francois — Shall I not bring it to you here? 

Madame — {Rises.) No, please. I shall feel better 
if I move about. {He gives his arm, they pass slowly out, 
still talking.) 

Francois — Do you feel the heat of the room is too 
great ? 

Madame — I think not, it seems quite cool. {Go out 
U. L.) 



Scene IV — {Frederic and Irene enter from the Conserva- 
tory up centre; she sits R. C, he stands at her left.) 

Frederic — We are alone. May I speak to you? 

Irene — What about? 

Frederic — The past — 

Irene — Why? 

Frederic — To explain. 

Irene — You could not. 

Frederic — But I want you to know that we were on 
the verge of ruin. My father never curtailed his expenses 
at the chateau, his income decreased, he spent my mother's 
dowry, he mortgaged everything. One night he told me 
all — begged me to save him and mother. 

Irene — You sacrificed me ! 

Frederic — To save them ! A wealthy marriage would 
restore them completely — pay their debts, give them an 
income, free them from shame and disgrace. It was the 
only way ! 

Irene — You sold yourself ! 

Frederic — Do not blame me too harshly. My family 
pride 

Irene — Was greater than your love for me ! 

Frederic — I am ashamed of myself and my weakness. 
We had not known each other long, our love was so recent, 



A L D I N I 23 



we hardly knew each other. I could not come to see you, 
and wrote, asking you to release me for my family and 
my future. I never can forgive myself. 

Irene — But you can have no idea of the horror that 
filled my heart at the thought of your cruelty. My love 
for you was girlish, I did not know you, or the world you 
lived in. I was romantic and just out of the convent, 
where we dreamed of the forbidden dangers of the outside 
world we were taught to fear. You came and my chaperon 
welcomed you as a safe friend, a companion to be merry 
and cheerful with me in her presence. You always were 
respectful, and I must have idealized you far above your 
real worth. You said you loved me, told me to wait until 
you could ask for my hand through your father, upon 
whom you were dependent. I builded castles in Spain 
and the wrench on my heart when I received your letter, 
was simply horrible. I went to the convent for three 
months, and on my return asked my Aunt Heloise to live 
with me as my friend and chaperon. She knew nothing, 
and I hid the bitterness and horror that filled my soul from 
her loving eyes. You filled me with suspicion and fear 
against every man, the very thought of marriage was 
hateful. Oh ! I have suffered in my pride, my girlish 
affection, until it seems as thoug-h Francois was a magician 
to save me from myself and my humiliation. I see more 
clearly now and can make allowances for you and yours. 
I could almost forgive you, if I could feel sure that you 
would help me bury the past out of sight forever ! 

Frederic — I would do anything in my power to atone 
for the wrong I did you. I never did a noble thing in my 
life. I am a weakling, a fashionable idler, living on my 
wife's money, but if there is one spark of manhood in me, 
one sentiment of honor left, I will promise you to die with 
my lips sealed. 

Irene — I believe you and beg of you to redeem the 
past in some way. Be a man, if the time ever comes when 
you are tempted to drop below the standard of "noblesse 
oblige," and maybe you will take the sting out of your 
weakness, as I have out of my sorrow. Promise me ! 

Frederic — I do ! Some one is coming. Let us return. 
(She rises and they pass up the centre to meet Maurel 
and Duval, who come from the Conservatory. Frangois 
and Madame Artesani enter from the U. L.) 



24 A L D I N I 



Maurel — Franqois, I am delighted with Madame 
Duval's orchids, they are simply gorgeous. 

Francois — That is fine. I have paid more attention 
to music than to flowers, but my wife promises to make 
up for my deficiency. 

Irene — As I adore them both, we shall be one heart, 
one soul, music and flowers ! 

Duval — I am pleased that I have both for you tonight 
— orchids and Aldini. Both at their best. (Laughs.) 
(The clock strikes nine.) He will be here soon, and my 
other guests will begin to arrive. Just a few neighbors 
who are fond of music, and are old friends of mine. 



Scene V. 

Pierre — (Announces.) Monsieur and Madame Niv- 
ers — Monsieur and Madame Halle. (They enter from 
U. L.) 

Duval — (Meets them.) I am so glad to see you; let 
me present Monsieur and Madame L'Estrange — Monsieur 
and Madame Artesani, and Monsieur Maurel. (They 
meet, bozv and chat together cordially, standing in groups.) 

Pierre — (Announces.) Monsieur and Madame Rous- 
seau, Monsieur and Madame Pontet, Monsieur and Ma- 
dame Beaulieu. (They enter from U. L., meet Madame 
Duval. ) 

Duval — You are very welcome. Allow me to present 
Monsieur and Madame L'Estrange, Monsieur and Madame 
Artesani, and Monsieur Maurel. (They come forward and 
how, then pass to the others and greet them. They form 
in groups and chat a while.) 

Duval — Shall we be seated? I expect Monsieur 
Aldini presently. (They seat themselves gradually, Ma- 
dame Artesani sits down right back of the chair for 
Madame Duval.) 

Pierre — (Announces.) Monsieur Aldini. (The 
guests look pleased, smile and exchange remarks.) 

Duval — (Meets Aldini, shakes hands, he bows over 
her hand and kisses it.) I am so pleased to see you. 
(Turns to the guests.) Monsieur Aldini — my friends. 
(Looks at him.) Your friends! 

Aldini — Thank you, Madame — may the friendship 
never be broken. 

Duval — Will you not be seated with us for a few 
moments? 



A L D I N I 25 



Aldini — Thank you — but I am a bit late — and I 
would prefer to sing now, while your welcome and your 
charm have put me in the mood ! 

Duval — (Smiles.) Very well. (Goes to her seat in 
front of Madame Artesani.) {The Orchestra plays the 
prelude, and Aldini acts and sings "The Prodigal Son's 
Return.") {At the close the guests applaud and say 
"Bravo! Bravo" !) 

Aldini — My next song was written by Monsieur 
Francois L'Estrange, and I am sure he will be willing 
to have me sing to you, Madame Duval, rather than to 
his wife! {They all laugh.) 

{The Orchestra plays the prelude and Aldini sings 
"My Heart Is AHame.") {Applause.) 

Duval — {Applauds — leans hack — her tiara falls in 
Madame Artesani's lap — no one sees it, and she covers it 
with her scarf — then slyly transfers it to her armpit.) 
{Duval rises and goes to Aldini.) I cannot express my 
pleasure with your singing. You are inspired tonight, 
and seem to feel every word, as if it came from your very 
heart. I should be afraid to let you sing it to me in 
reality, I never could resist such emotion ! 

Maurel — {Comes and takes Aldini by the hand.) 
I thank you for the most exquisite pleasure that singing 
ever gave me. The sweetness of Campanini and Ravelli 
and the power of Caruso and De Reszke are all united in 
your glorious voice. We are all simply charmed with 
your art and with yourself. 

Aldini — Monsieur Maurel, you have paid me the 
greatest compliment I ever received. 

Irene — {Comes tip.) He is a Diplomat, but the 
most sincere one in all France. You have made me very 
happy with my husband's song, 

Aldini — It was a little secret between us to let you 
hear it tonight for the first time, but it was inspired by 
you alone. Madame Duval, it has been a privilege to 
sing for you and your friends. Believe me, the memory 
of this evening will last as long as I live. 

Duval — {As he bows and goes to the door, she fol- 
lows him, gives him her hand to kiss.) Goodnight. 
{Aldini passes out U. L.) {She turns and comes up 
centre.) I wonder if the Countess DeLaunay could refuse 
him, if he sang "My Heart is Aflame," to her, as he did 
tonight. 



A L D I N I 



Francois — I am willing to tell you all a secret, that 
will be no longer a secret after tomorrow. He sang it 
to her — she could not refuse him — and their engagement 
will be made public tomorrow. (All laugh.) 

Irene — How lovely ! The Countess is a fortunate 
woman ! Aldini is noble — not by birth — but by artistic 
achievement. He will wear a coronet — fashioned by his 
own hands. (All applaud.) 

Francois — Madame Duval, we are sorry to go so 
soon, but, with your kind permission — we promised to 
drop in to Madame Berard's. 

Irene — Thank you, Madame, for a most enjoyable 
evening. I shall never forget it ! 

Duval — I am sorry to have you go, but you will hear 
Aldini sing again. Tell me if he sings as well as he did 
for us! (All laugh.) (Frangois and Irene go with Ma- 
dame Duval to the door U. L., where they shake hands, 
Frangois kisses her hand, they say Goodnight, and exit 
U. L.) 

Duval — {Returns and finds Monsieur and Madame 
Artesani waiting to take their leave.) Must you go so 
soon? 

Madame Artesani — V/e are sorry to leave you, and 
thank you more than words can express. 

Frederic — (Bows over Madame Duval's hand, kisses 
it, and says:) We have been delighted. (Bow to the 
other guests and pass out U. L.) 

Duval — (Comes hack to her guests.) What shall 
we do now? More music is out of the question. Shall 
we play bridge? 

Maurel — I should like to play the American game — 
called Quaker meeting — where they all sit still in church, 
and wait for the spirit to move them. (All laugh.) 

Duval — I wonder if any spirit could move us like 
Aldini's singing. I am sure I could lose my heart to him, 
if I had one. 

Madame Beaulieu — Madame, where is your tiara? 
Have you lost it? (Sensation.) 

Duval — (Raises her hands to her head — goes to a 
mirror — comes hack — face drawn in anxiety.) Did I have 
it on after dinner ? 

Maurel — Yes, I remember that you did when you 
went into the Conservatory. It may have been brushed 



A L D I N I 27 



off by the branches of the palms. Do not be alarmed. 
We shall soon find it. 

Duval — But it is so strange that I did not hear it 
fall — or miss it from my head. Oh ! dear ! I am so upset 
to have such a thing happen. I hardly know w^hat to do ! 

Maurel — (Goes dose to her and says — "Be careful.") 
Do not worry. We will look about the room here, and 
have Pierre look in the Conservatory. We shall find it 
in a minute. {The guests look about the floor and the 
chairs, and then at each other in dismay.) 

Monsieur Beaulieu — Madame Duval, I feel that we 
should leave you free to search for it at once. You can 
drop us a note in the morning, if it is found, and make 
us all feel relieved. 

Duval — Oh ! Monsieur ! pray do not think for a 
moment that I could harbor a suspicion — you must not 
think of going so soon. 

NivERS — Madame, Monsieur Beaulieu is quite right. 
We should leave you to search for it. I hope you will 
find it at once and send us a note in the morning. 

Madame Nivers — Madame — I thank you for a great 
pleasure, and hope you will not think of having us remain. 

{Monsieur and Madame Nivers bid her "Good night" 
— he gives his right arm to his wife and they pass out 
U. L.) 

Monsieur Halle — Good night, Madame. Do not 
worry. 

Madame Halle — Good night, Madame. We hope for 
good news in the morning. {They pass out, arm in arm, 
U. L.) 

Monsieur Pontet — Good night, Madame. Thank 
you for the pleasure you have given us. 

Madame Pontet — Good night, Madame. I feel sorry 
for this episode, but it will come out all right, never fear. 
{They pass out, arm in arm, U. L.) 

Monsieur Rousseau — Good night, Madame. If you 
do not find the tiara, will you let me buy you another one 
just like it? 

Duval — Oh ! you dear friend. I am no longer wor- 
ried over it. What would your wife say? 

Madame Rousseau — I should say he was a perfect 
dear, and he may buy me one, if you find yours. {Laugh.) 
{Pass out, arm in arm, U. L.) 

Monsieur Beaulieu — Madame — Good night. We feel 



28 A L D 1 N 1 



grateful to you, and hope your suspense will soon be ended. 
Madame Beaulieu — Good night, Madame. I shall 
look for the little note in the morning very eagerly. (They 
pass out, arm in arm, U. L.) 



Scene VI. 

Maurel — I congratulate you on carrying off a most 
distressing situation, in a most charming way. Almost 
any woman would have made a scene, and grieved her old 
friends beyond measure. 

Duval — Thanks to you, for I should have gone to 
pieces, if you had not cautioned me. I did not know I 
was so nervous. Where can it be? 

Maurel — You had it on when you welcomed Aldini, 
so it is not in the Conservatory; but I ask you to send 
those notes, saying that it was found, caught in the 
branches of a palm ! 

Duval — But what shall I do if any of them come over 
and wish to see it? 

Maurel — We go to the L'Estranges tomorrow night. 
Will you drive with me in the afternoon, and not be at 
home in the morning? 

Duval — Gladly, but what shall I do, after that? 

Maurel — Never fear. I will find it — or give you 
another to replace it. 

Duval — Oh ! Monsieur ! — I could not think of such a 
thing ! 

Maurel — I only ask you to trust me to find the tiara. 
I have my suspicions — but I do not wish to move, unless 
I have your permission. 

Duval — I do trust you, and I am perfectly willing 
to leave the matter in your hands; but is it quite proper 
for me to do that? Shall I not search for it first, and 
then, if you think it necessary, I could consent to your 
request? Is not that the better way? 

Maurel — If you could find it by searching, it would 
be wise, but you have not left this room since I saw it on 
your head, when you introduced Aldini. It may have 
fallen off and been caught in some of the ladies' scarfs or 
laces, but it never left this room unless it went with some 
of your guests, for it is not here now ! Will you let me 
recover it for you, and bring it with me to the L'Estranges, 
and place it on your head again? (Earnestly.) 

Duval — Monsieur — I hardly know what to say — it 



A L D I N I 29 



seems so cruel to suspect one of my guests. I know not 
what to do. What shall I say? 

Maurel — Say Yes ! You can trust me ! 

Duval — I do trust you ! 

Maurel — Do you say Yes? 

Duval — Yes! (Archly.) 

Maurel — If I find it, and place it on your head again 
tomorrow night — will you promise to say Yes, if I ask 
for a reward? 

Duval — Oh ! Monsieur — do not urge me — I cannot 
promise to say Yes before I know what reward you will 
ask. 

Maurel — Promise me — that you will write those 
notes at once — and then give no more thought to it until 
tomorrow night. 

Duval — Yes ! 

Maurel — I will call for you at three for our drive. 
We will go into the country, and Nature will rest our eyes 
with her tranquil beauty, and soothe our minds with her 
gentle calm, making us forget that human hearts can ever 
suffer, that human wills can ever waver, that human feet 
can ever go astray. 

Duval — I shall expect you, and now I must thank 
you for all your thoughtful kindness and care for me. 
(They move toward the door.) I appreciate it more than 
I can tell you. Good night. (He hozvs over her hand, 
kisses it — looks longingly in her face, and says:) 

Maurel — Good night, and pleasant dreams. 

Curtain. 
End of Second Act. 

ACT THREE 

Scene I. — (The Artesani's room in the Hotel Moulin — 
same evening. Monsieur and Madame Artesani enter 
center door, and lay aside their tvraps.) 
Frederic — I will put on my smoking jacket and write 

a letter that must be sent tonight. You had better go to 

bed at once and get your beauty sleep. 

Madame — Very well. I am a little tired. Good 

night. 

Frederic — Good night. I hope you rest well. (She 

goes to her room, U. L., and he goes to his, U. R., closing 

his door. She returns at once, unlocks the small safe. 



30 A L D I N I 



against the rear wall, puts her jewels and the tiara in it, 
but hurries hack to her room, leaving the key in the lock 
as she hears her husband within his room.) 

Frederic — {Enters, dressed in a smoking jacket, takes 
up a letter from the desk on the right, reads it, puts it down 
— sits — zvrites a letter, addresses an envelope, stamps it — 
goes to the safe, takes some bills, counts them — sees the 
tiara — says:) A new diamond tiara, like Madame Duval's ! 
My wife is crazy over diamonds. {Returns to the desk, 
puts hills in the letter, seals it, says:) Well! debts of 
honor must be paid, but I shall swear off cards after this. 
I have the worst luck. I wonder if the games were fair? 
Heigho ! Life is just one damn thing after another! 
Strange that Irene should have changed so much. She is 
deeply in love with L'Estrange. He is a splendid man — 
she is proud of him. What a mess I have made of my 
life ! She said, "If the time ever comes, be a man — 
redeem yourself." Be a man — play the game. I don't 
believe I could stand the gaff! {Madame opens her door, 
steals along toward the safe, takes the tiara — puts it on 
her head — takes it off — ptits it back. Frederic watches in 
horror.) 

Madame — {Says:) No one saw the tiara drop in my 
lap. I wonder if they missed it. I kept it in my armpit 
until we came home. I can never wear it, but I could sell 
the diamonds in New York. Frederic must never know. 
If I should be questioned about it, I should not know what 
to say. I never was tempted before. Father used to play 
with his diamonds. {Moves out into the room and strikes 
a chair, screams softly, awakens and trembles — Frederic 
goes quickly to her — says:) 

Frederic — Did you hurt yourself? I thought you 
went to bed ? 

Madame — I was dreaming— I think — I am confused. 
How did I come here? 

Frederic — You were walking in your sleep, and 
stumbled against the chair. You had been looking at 
your jewels. 

Madame — Did I put them away safely? 

Frederic — Yes — but there was a new diamond tiara 
— that I never saw before. When did you get it? 

Madame — I forget just now — I must have had it be- 
fore. And you have not seen it? {Looks at him timidly,) 
Why do you look so at me? Is anything the matter? 



A L D I N I 31 



Frederic — I thought it looked like the one Madame 
Duval wore this evening. Was it the same? 

Madame — The same? Why, how could it be? She 
has not lost hers — 

Frederic — I am afraid she has. Do you know any- 
thing about it? 

Madame — Do you think that I took it away with me? 

Frederic — You certainly did — and just now — in your 
sleep — you said that it dropped in your lap — you hid it 
in your armpit — brought it home — put it away with your 
jewels. My God! Helene. How could you do it? 

Madame — (Sobbing.) Oh! Frederic! It was a sud- 
den impulse. I never felt so before. What shall w^ do? 
What can we do? 

Frederic — We must restore it in such a way as to 
prevent trouble. I will have Monsieur Maurel come here, 
and take it back. He will hush it up and Madame Duval 
will do something to save you from shame. 

Madame — Oh ! Frederic ! Why are you not more 
angry with me ? I could stand it better if you would curse 
me — strike me ! 

Frederic — My poor child, I have no time to be angry. 
I must keep cool in order to save you. Will you not go 
back to bed again and let me send for Monsieur Maurel? 
I will cover it up for you. (Leads her to her room, as she 
sobs and clings to him — closes the door — goes to the desk, 
writes a note — rings the bell.) What shall I say? How 
shall I tell him? He would save a woman from shame — 
Madame Duval would listen to him. (Bell boy knocks. 
Frederic takes the note, goes to the door, gives the note to 
the boy — says:) Take this note to Room 67 — Monsieur 
Maurel. There is no answer. (Closes the door, walks the 
■floor excitedly.) I am at the turning point! I must be 
a man and play the game. I will be calm and plead for 
mercy. My wife is so rich that it is a plain case of klep- 
tomania. How shall we ever get on after this? She 
turned to me so pitifully ! I must not be harsh. But how 
can I stand the shame of knowing that she is my wife and 
a — No ! No ! Not that word ! She had no training from 
her father. He made his fortune by breaking the law — 
and I live on that money ! (Maurel taps on the door — 
Frederic goes to the door, opens it — Maurel enters — they 
pass down to front.) 

Frederic — Monsieur Maurel, I have sent for you on 



32 A L D I N I 



a very painful errand. The simple truth is bad enough. 
Madame Duval's tiara dropped in my wife's lap while 
Aldini was singing. On a sudden impulse she hid it, 
brought it home — put it away in that safe (points) with 
her jewels. I had a letter to write and saw my wife come 
from her room in her sleep. She went through it all 
before me, stumbled against a chair — awoke — confessed. 
I wish to restore it and avoid a scandal. Can it be done? 

Maurel — Certainly ! I told Madame Duval, after it 
was missed, that I would find it for her and give it to her 
tomorrow. She has written a note to each of her guests 
saying it was found in the Conservatory, caught on the 
branches of a palm. You are perfectly safe — no scandal 
will come out. 

Frederic — Thank God ! Monsieur Maurel, you have 
done me the greatest kindness I could receive. I cannot 
express my gratitude, 

Maurel — Do not try. I have the deepest sympathy 
for you, and understand the matter perfectly. I have had 
some peculiar experiences in my time. Let me urge you 
to deal very gently with your wife. It is a turning point 
for you both. She may be in a very nervous state. Have 
a doctor examine her. She is not guilty, but she is suffer- 
ing from an obscure trouble. If we knew more we should 
understand. 

Frederic — Then you think that she is not guilty? 

Maurel — Kleptomania is a disease — not a sin. I 
must let Madame Duval know the truth — also the 
L'Estranges. They will protect you and are absolutely 
sure to keep silence. Rely upon me in every way. 

Frederic — Let me give the tiara to you now. We 
shall go back to Paris. I will follow your advice. You 
have comforted me more than you will ever understand. 
(Brings the tiara to him.) 

Maurel — (Taking it.) Cheer up! You will pull 
yourself tOP-ether, and save your wife, who has no one but 
you to turn to now. (They go to the door.) Good night. 
(Shakes hands.) 

Frederic — Good night. 

(Maurel passes out C. Frederic goes back to the desk 
after closing the door — passes his hands over his temples 
again and again.) 

Frederic — How can I stand it ! It is easy to say, 
"Be a man — play the game" — ^but when a man has wasted 



A L D I N I 33 



every chance — fooled away his time — sacrificed a noble 
girl — made a mercenary marriage — can he live in the 
shadow of a great fear, and bear the burden of a never- 
ending shame? Why not end it all, and escape from a 
thraldom that is worse than death ! {Takes a pistol from 
a drazver in the desk — places it to his temple — and then 
replaces it.) No! I can't play the coward, and leave my 
poor wife to despair. (His head falls in his hands — 
Orchestra plays the opening of the "Prodigal Son's Re- 
turn") 

Madame — (Opens her door softly — looks into the 
room — comes a little way in — ^^3'^', in a whisper:) Fred- 
eric — has he gone? May I come to you? 

Frederic — (Rises — goes toward her — says:) Yes; 
you may come. 

Madame — (Comes a step or two — waits — studies his 
face.) I am so sorry. Can you forgive me? 

Frederic — (Holds out his hands.) 

Madame — (Comes a little nearer — says faintly:) Can 
you ever forgive me, Frederic? 

Frederic — (Takes her hands.) My poor child! 

Madame — I know how very proud you are of your 
family honor! Have I destroyed it? 

Frederic — No ! Maurel has taken the tiara back to 
Madame Duval. She will send a note to her guests, say- 
ing it was found in the Conservatory. You are saved ! 

Madame — Saved from disgrace ! But the horror of it 
all overwhelms me. Frederic, you are strangely kind to 
me — I cannot understand how you can treat me so. 

Frederic — (She falls to his feet, he lifts her up 
gently, kisses her on her forehead. She bursts into tears, 
hides her face on his shoulder. He holds her close and 
waits.) Helene — we have never been in a crisis like this. 
I want to comfort you and give you hope. You have been 
very generous with me — and I want you to feel that I 
forgive you. 

Madame — Forgive me! (Faintly — draws away from 
him — looks into his face, and loudly and joyfully says:) 
Frederic Artesani ! ! You mean it ! You mean it — I see 
it in your face — your eyes. Oh ! let me die in your arms. 
Kiss me — only once. I was going to poison myself! 

Frederic — (Draws her to him closely — kisses her very 
slowly on the lips.) Helene! Do you know that I love 
you — more than I ever did before! 



34 A L D I N I 



Madame — I cannot understand. Do you really love 
me in spite of my guilt? 

Frederic — In spite of everything ! You are my wife ! 
And I love you! 

Madame — Does joy ever kill? Or is it only grief? 
Frederic — I married you through pride — but your tender- 
ness, your forgiveness — your love — have lifted me up. I 
will be a true wife to you from this day forward. Teach 
me to please you — help m.e to be strong. Oh ! Frederic — 
the heart of a woman ! when love fills it, can lead her 
— can teach her — can save her. When I look in your 
face — and feel that at last — I am your wife — shielded, 
protected, forgiven — I cannot keep back the tears. You 
do not mind if I cry? 

Frederic — Tears give relief ! I see your heart in a 
new light. We shall be happy together, and the past, 
with its mistakes and sad memories, will only bind us 
closer and closer. 

Madame — My husband — my lover — my savior ! I will 
love you with such tenderness and devotion, that you can 
always trust me ! 

Frederic — I do trust you ! I do love you ! (Kisses 
her tenderly, as the curtain falls.) 

End of Third Act. 



ACT FOUR 

Scene I. — {Evening of the next day, in the garden behind 
the villa zvhere the L'Estrangcs live. House right, 
steps and door, paths, palms, shrubs, flowers, settee — 
moonlight.) 

Irene — {Seated in green settee.) How balmy the 
air is tonight — almost like a night in June. Frangois 
seems so happy ; he is sanguine that his book will be a 
success, and bring him fame and fortune. He would be 
glad to return to Paris when his book comes out. I hope 
he will be acquitted by the Court of Appeal, and then we 
can return. Well ! we have been very happy here, and can 
remain longer if need be. It was strange to find the 
Artesanis here. I did not make out the name from 
Madame Duval's invitation. I was only thinking of 
Aldini. How lovely to have Frangois write a song for 
me ! I am glad the tiara was found. Maurel is to bring 



A L D I N I 35 



her here tonight — he seems very attentive to her. They 
would live in Paris — so will the Artesanis. I may have 
to meet them. I am glad the ordeal is over of meeting 
him again. He has improved, and my old love affair is 
a thing of the past. I am surprised that my resentment 
has grown so weak in my happiness with Francois. It is 
easy to forgive when you are happy. (Listens — rises and 
turns to meet Frederic Artesani coming up the walk — 
speaks to him.) 

Irene — I am here by the settee. Shall we go in? 

Frederic — May I speak with you here? 

Irene — Why ! certainly. (Gives him her hand.) You 
are very pale ! Are you ill ? 

Frederic — No; only I had a bad night. The affair 
of the diamond tiara upset me completely. 

Irene — But I received a note from her this morning 
saying it had been found in the Conservatory ! 

Frederic — Yes ; that was the explanation Monsieur 
Maurel wished her to make — but you must know the truth ? 

Irene — You startle me ! 

Frederic — I prefer to tell you myself. Monsieur 
Maurel will tell you and your husband later. 

Irene — But what is there to tell? 

Frederic — I wish that you might never know. I 
take a melancholy satisfaction in telling you myself, as a 
sort of reparation for the pain I made your suffer ! 

Irene — I thought we agreed never to refer to that 
again. 

Frederic — Pardon me — I am not quite myself yet. 
My wife is a kleptomaniac. Madame Duval's tiara 
dropped in her lap, she brought it home. I discovered 
it. Monsieur Maurel will return it to Madame Duval, and 
keep the matter secret. 

Irene — How terrible ! How she must have suffered ! 
To know that you know it. And how you must suffer 
also ! Pity her — I am so sorry for you both ! It will 
be a load for you to bear, but there is only one thing for 
you to do. You must bear it together. 

Frederic — We have already been reconciled. At first, 
I was tempted to escape from it all. 

Irene — Suicide ! That would be cruel. I do not 
know what I should have done — but the thought of suicide 
has always been so hateful to me, that I could never con- 
sider it. 



36 A L D I N I 



Frederic — It was your words to me that stayed my 
hand — "Be a man, and if the time ever comes, redeem 
yourself." They saved me ! 

Irene — Oh ! I am glad ! Frederic — I hated you for 
months — but now — even my resentment is growing weaker. 
I pity — and forgive. 

Frederic — Your husband has been your preserver. I 
shall try to be my wife's. After today I shall step out of 
your life, but I want you to feel that you saved me from 
suicide. If I ever climb the hill and overcome my weak- 
ness, I shall thank you. On my return to Paris, I am 
going to be like other men, and cease being a mere idler. 
Irene, I love my wife, and am going to "Be a man and 
redeem myself." {The gate clicks.) 

Irene — Come with me to the gate at the end of the 
garden. I cannot say goodbye here, some one is coming. 
{Exit D. L.) 



Scene II. — {Monsieur Maurel and Madame come up the 

path.) 

Maurel — We are early; let us not go in just yet. 
Come and sit down here. {She sits on the green settee.) 
I have brought the tiara with me. {Takes it from his 
pocket.) May I place it on your head? 

Duval — {Leans toward him, he places it on her head 
and she fixes it zuith a pin.) 

Duval — I cannot thank you properly. 

Maurel — {Still standing by her.) I must tell you 
how I found it. You will keep the secret? 

Duval — Faithfully. 

Maurel — Madame Artesani is a kleptomaniac. 

Duval — How terrible ! 

Maurel — I promised her husband that we would 
shield her by our silence. Yours and mine — Franqois' and 
Irene's 

Duval — I promise you to keep silence forever. Poor 
woman ! — poor Artesani — and his family pride ! How 
will he bear it? 

Maurel — I think it will make a man of him, and bind 
them together. 

Duval — I am glad you think so. Most mercenary 
marriages are mistakes. Mine was. My parents made 
my marriage. My husband had a valet who made him 
up every morning. He passed for fifty-five — he was 



A L D I N I 37 



seventy-four. We had not been married more than a 
year, when he died of pneumonia. It is wrong for a girl 
to marry an old man for his money ! 

Maurel — I should want my wife to share my love 
and my life — my pursuit of fame, fortune and power. Are 
you ambitious? 

Duval — Dreadfully. 

Maurel — I have never thought of marriage, until I 
met you — and now — I love you so dearly I cannot bear 
to lose you. I want you for my wife — to share my work 
— to share my career. Will you marry me? 

Duval — You give me all that a woman craves — love — 
ambition — a share in a man's life — in a man's work — a 
share in a man's career — I love you ! I will be a loving 
wife and a loyal helpmeet all the days of my life! (Lifts 
her face up to his as he stoops and tenderly kisses her.) 

Maurel — You have made me very happy. Let us go 
and tell Franqois and Irene. They will share in our hap- 
piness, too. 

Duval — Kiss me again and tell me that you love me ! 

Maurel — More than life itself ! (Kisses her — they 
rise and go toward the house.) 

Duval — I am afraid I shall love you too much. 

Maurel — You never can do that. I find some new 
charm in you every hour. (They pass up the stepSj he 
pauses at the door, lets her pass — she turns hack inside 
the door, holds up her lips — he kisses her — says:) My 
Queen! (Exit.) 



Scene III. — (Irene comes hack slozvly, sees them in the 

door.) 

Irene — So Monsieur Maurel is to be made happy. 
Next to Francois, he is the noblest man I know. Madame 
Duval will be an inspiration to him. She will be a com- 
rade as well as a wife. He will be famous. How glad I 
am that this has happened ! They are mated in every way. 
Franqois will be delighted. (Sits.) 

Francois — (in the door.) Darling, where are you? 

Irene — Here in the garden — on the settee. 

Francois — (Comes dozvn the steps gaily.) Maurel and 
Madame Duval have fallen in love — she has promised to 
be his wife. They looked so happy, I had to leave them 
alone, and come to tell you. 



38 A L D I N I 



Irene — Splendid! I saw Ihem in the door as they 
went in to find you — and knew what had happened. 

Francois — I have some other news for you that will 
make us both happy. 

Irene — Tell me, quick! (Rises.) 

Francois — I am acquitted by the Court of Appeal, and 
we are free to return to Paris. 

Irene — Oh ! Darling ! I am so glad. Your new book 
will come out when we are back home. 

Francois — And I will begin another in the old cha- 
teau where we shall spend the Summer. 

Irene — And I shall be busy, too — but not with books. 
(He looks at her in surprise.) Something nicer than 
books. Francois, your child will be born in the old 
chateau ! 

Francois — My child! Thank God! My cup of joy 
is full ! (Kneels and kisses her hand — rises and takes her 
in his arms.) 

Irene — Francois — I never knew it meant so much to 
you! 

Francois — No home is complete until man and wife 
can say our child. Irene — my sweet wife — I worship you ! 

(The Orchestra plays "My Heart Is AUame.") 
Curtain Falls. 
End of the Play. 



Henry H. Morrill, 
Springfield, 
Mass. 
October 9, 1911. 



One copy del. to Cat. Div. 



ijm 2 t912 



DEC 



23 S^S\ 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




014 212 066 5 / 



